Conflict of Interest?

Question

Would I be infringing on conflict of interest if I took on one job privately if they were turned down by my employer?
One of my clients is an 11 year old boy with disabilities that lives with his parents, and I as well as other assistants go out to the home for help. The parents have to go to another state for 5 days to handle some things with family there. They asked my employer if they could provide a HCA to come out while he is home from school. They denied the request, even though the family said they would have no problem paying the amount due that their regular form of payment does not cover. My employer said that the HCAs dont work 3rd shift, or pass meds and they wouldn't allow it. The family asked me if I would be willing to do it anyway and I would get paid cash ($800 plus gas money, food money). I am more than qualified for the specified job becuase at my other job I am state certified to pass meds, g-tubes etc. Since they were denied help is that conflict of interest??

Thanks for the two replies so far. BUT they were not turned down for any negative reason. Basically, the hospital doesnt want to pay the overtime, nor do they want to pay an RN to go out to the house. The ideal employee would be between the HCA and RN (which I am at my other job) they dont want to pay the extra amount for an RN to go out to the home. It is a money issue. There are no negative aspects to this case. I just do not understand how it is conflict of interest WHEN THEY WERE TURNED DOWN SERVICE. They had their chance to make money and said NO.

Answer 1

It's not a conflict of interests, per se, but it may be against your employment contract. If company policy prohibits you from taking assignments from client, they can discharge you with cause. Weigh the risks and benefits, and decide what is right for you.

Answer 2

YES that is a HUGE conflict of interest. You should NOT take the position. There is a REASON they were turned down. Although it seems unfair, that's just the way it is. If you take the position you open yourself (and your employer) up for all kinds of liability. It would be a VERY bad idea.