A 75-year-old patient with a history of renal impairment is prescribed digoxin for atrial fibrillation. The order is for 0.125 mg of digoxin orally once a day. The pharmacy provides digoxin in 0.25 mg tablets. The nurse must split the tablets to administer the correct dosage. Calculate the number of tablets the nurse should administer.
Additionally, consider the pharmacokinetics of digoxin, as renal function significantly affects its excretion. What is the safest and most appropriate dosage for this patient?