[Items] and [Carried]; clearing up newbie confusion

[RATM]

Hello all,

I'm trying to clear some confusion since buying this game a week or so ago and hosting a few ones at home.

I have a question with regards to Items on hand an equipped. From what I understand, you may carry items (show them face up on the table for all to say), one-shots and all, use them when appropriate, etc.

My question is the following: must a one-shot (or other) item be equipped to be used when it is some one else's turn?

ie:
- I have a +3 potion equipped;
- Player 1 is fighting a monster;
- From my hand, I play a +5 from my hand (so face down, not equipped) to hinder him/her
- I play wand of dousing to fish out a +10 to monster to hinder him/her again;
- I do not play my +3, I've done enough nasty stuff.

Does this work, or can I only play my equipped potion, and then curses/wandering monsters from my hand?

Thanks a lot.