using items in certain roms.

Hey guys back with another question....I just downloaded castlevania and noticed while playing as Im picking up items that theres no way for me to use them.Im not really sure what to do about this..if you guys have any comments to help feel free.I do have a joypad but dont use it with them because I cant find it and the first time I tried to use it..it didnt really work so I just use the keyboard...so like I said any help would be great this also happends on other roms that I have dl'd. Thanks Guys