Then switch plates and plunge the needle into the agar a few times to remove the Chromerge. It will be squeeky clean again. Defects of the needle are usually visually observable, especially if it transmits light. There may be a spur or a chip on one edge. Such a needle needs to be replaced.
Cells vary in the amount of handling they can survive.
Ascospores are very durable. Stationary phase cells and zygotes are quite tough, too. Log phase cells are sensitive. My personal rule for log phase cells is that if I can't pick up the cell on the first attempt, I leave it and go on to another. I don't want to waste my time carrying around dead bodies.