Screening for Neurocognitive Abilities Post-COVID (SNAP-COVID): Scale Development and Validation

Background. COVID-19, has drawn attention to its neurocognitive sequelae in individuals with Post-COVID Condition (PCC), yet standardized tools for screening and quantifying PCC-related cognitive impairment remain scarce. The present study aimed to develop and validate the Screening for Neurocognitive Abilities Post-COVID (SNAP-COVID) scale, a self-report instrument designed to capture current symptom burden and perceived changes in cognitive functioning relative to pre-COVID status. Methods. Data collection occurred in three phases between August 2024 and February 2025. Dataset A (N = 27) was used for test–retest reliability. Dataset B (N = 300) supported exploratory factor analysis (EFA), reliability testing, and convergent validity analyses with the Brain Fog Scale (BFS). Dataset C (N = 317) provided independent validation through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Results. Initial EFA of the 30-item SNAP-COVID suggested a four-factor model, but item refinement yielded a robust three-factor, 24-item solution: (1) General Cognitive Functions (17 items, α = .948), (2) Sensory Hypersensitivity (4 items, α = .829), and (3) Language and Communication (3 items, α = .950). The total scale demonstrated excellent internal consistency (α = .95). Convergent validity was supported by significant correlations between SNAP impact scores and BFS scores (r = –.442, p < .001). CFA confirmed the three-factor structure with acceptable fit indices (χ²(249) = 677.29, p < .001; CFI = .882; TLI = .869; RMSEA = .074; SRMR = .032). Conclusions The SNAP-COVID scale is a reliable and valid instrument. Its multidimensional structure captures global and domain-specific difficulties, addressing a critical gap in post-infectious cognitive assessment.